Cotton Leaf Curl Disease: Pathogen Diversity, Whitefly Ecology, and Integrated Management Approaches

Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD), caused by begomoviruses in association with betasatellites and transmitted by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, is a major threat to cotton production in South Asia and parts of Africa. Despite significant research efforts, the disease continues to re-emerge due to rapid viral recombination, shifts in whitefly cryptic species, and the breakdown of host resistance. This review synthesizes recent advancements in three critical areas: (i) the molecular diversity and evolution of CLCuD-associated viruses, focusing on recombination events and resistance-breaking strains; (ii) genomic insights into B. tabaci, highlighting its vector competence, insecticide resistance, and symbiont interactions; and (iii) integrated management strategies, combining host resistance, vector management, and novel biotechnological approaches. We also emphasize the role of climate modeling in predicting disease dynamics under changing environmental conditions. Despite significant progress, key knowledge gaps remain, including the limited field validation of CRISPR/RNAi-based resistance, insufficient monitoring of whitefly cryptic species, and the inadequate integration of climate projections into disease management frameworks. This review highlights these gaps and outlines priority areas for future research to develop sustainable strategies for managing CLCuD.